Adult Further Education Figures Fall by 12%

A recent report has found that there has been a sharp decrease in the number of adults participating in further education courses. Perspective, a leading UK individual learning plan software provider, is looking to encourage potential adult learners and apprentices to reconsider their options before they decide not to undertake further education.

Government data found that from 2010 – 2011 the number of learners aged 19 and over in government funded further education and skills provision dropped by 11.6 per cent. However, at the same time apprenticeship figures for the same age group greatly increased and represented a jump of approximately 93 per cent.

These figures indicate that many adults desire to study as an apprentice rather than continuing education, thereby earning a minor wage whilst also learning required skills to heighten their chances of finding full-time employment. Further to this, the recession is believed to have had an effect on the number of applicants, with many potential adult learners unable to support themselves through education, as such having to turn to full-time employment.

Paul Davis, managing director of Perspective, commented: “Although it is encouraging to see such a large increase in the number of apprentices, it is important that further education figures don’t decrease further and both school leavers and adult learners alike look to conduct further education training where possible.

“Although apprenticeships enable an applicant to learn on-site skills whilst earning a basic wage, they aren’t always the most suitable options and in some cases further education is a more viable options. Potential applicants must review which education or training courses are most suitable for them prior to applying.”